Intimidating for the war on drugs has been the fact that in recent years worldwide production of both marijuana and opium has increased. To this can be added the problem that many countries seem to be unable, or unwilling, to take a stand against major drug traffickers. It is within the context of these problems and concerns that the debate over the legalization of drugs emerged in 1988. When comparing the advantages and disadvantages of the drug legalization strategy with those of current drug policies, evidence suggests that legalization may be the strategy for tackling the drug problem. However, the argument for drug legalization is highly questionable in its historical, sociocultural, and empirical underpinnings. Concrete and specific recommendations for drug legalization are discussed, along with the legalization of two specific drugs -- marijuana and MDMA. The public health alternative is emphasized in reducing drug abuse, and a discussion takes place on the different drug policies in Britain and the United States over the years. Finally, the tobacco and alcohol industries are chastised for their involvement in the drug industry. Index (For individual papers, see NCJ-127679-127687)